Uber will pay drivers to complete AI jobs while waiting for their next passenger

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Uber announced it will begin paying drivers for completing online tasks that contribute to the development of its artificial intelligence, though this program isn’t currently open to all drivers.

Artificial intelligence is beginning to change many jobs globally. For example, restaurants are now using AI to create menus and prepare simple dishes, and car companies are employing robots to assemble vehicle parts.

AI is becoming more common across many industries, not just in technology. For example, while Uber isn’t currently using self-driving cars, they are leveraging their large network of drivers to help develop and improve AI technology.

Beginning in mid-October, Uber drivers in the U.S. will have the option to earn extra money by completing short, online tasks during downtime between rides.

Uber drivers can make money

I’ve been checking out these new online gigs, and they’re pretty cool! Basically, you can make a little money doing simple tasks like taking pictures of restaurant menus and uploading them, or even just recording your voice. The best part is, most of them only take a couple of minutes, so it’s not a big time commitment.

Drivers will earn a little extra money with the new AI feature, but it won’t be enough to replace their regular income from driving passengers or delivering food. They’ll still need to continue those jobs.

These new positions will support Uber’s expansion into artificial intelligence, following their recent acquisition of Segments AI in early October.

Uber is introducing a new way for its US drivers to earn money: completing quick, online tasks. These “digital tasks” take just a few minutes and can be done at any time, even while waiting for ride requests. Examples include labeling data to help train artificial intelligence, uploading restaurant menus, and recording short audio clips.

— Bearly AI (@bearlyai) October 18, 2025

Honestly, I’m pretty worried about all of this. I was reading the comments, and one person put it perfectly – they said it’s just really grim. Another commenter even said it felt like something out of a dystopian novel, which is a bit scary to think about!

Someone else suggested letting passengers help out during rides, pointing out that people in the back seat are often just sitting there anyway. They proposed Uber could even put passengers to work.

Some observers pointed out that this could help Uber collect valuable data to develop self-driving cars, similar to what Waymo and Tesla are doing with their Robotaxi programs. However, those programs have faced challenges, including cars unexpectedly stopping and committing traffic offenses.

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2025-10-21 14:48